He took a walk with me, after breakfast, into the garden; and a little
shower falling, he led me, for shelter, into the little summer-house, in
the private garden, where he formerly gave me apprehensions; and, sitting
down by me, he said, I have now finished all that lies on my mind, my
dear, and am very easy: For have you not wondered, that I have so much
employed myself in my library? Been so much at home, and yet not in your
company?--No, sir, said I; I have never been so impertinent as to wonder
at any thing you please to employ yourself about; nor would give way to a
curiosity that should be troublesome to you: And, besides, I know your
large possessions; and the method you take of looking yourself into your
affairs, must needs take up so much of your time, that I ought to be very
careful how I intrude upon you.
Well, said he, but I'll tell you what has been my last work I have taken
it into my consideration, that, at present, my line is almost extinct;
and that the chief part of my maternal estate, in case I die without
issue, will go to another line, and great part of my personal will fall
into such hands, as I shall not care my Pamela should he at the mercy of.
I have, therefore, as human life is uncertain, made such a disposition of
my affairs, as will make you absolutely independent and happy; as will
secure to you the power of doing a great deal of good, and living as a
person ought to do, who is my relict; and shall put it out of any body's
power to molest your father and mother, in the provision I design them,
for the remainder of their days: And I have finished all this very
morning, except to naming trustees for you; and if you have any body you
would confide in more than another, I would have you speak.
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